Posted By Pete Longworth There is an online database of vibration levels for hand tools that have been determined empirically by an independent agency. You can either google HAVTEC or go to www.operc.com/pages/havteclogin.asp. As for the grinding wheels, the whole thing about HAVS is that it is based on risk assessment. I'm not sure that static grinding wheels are covered but if so then if you assess the common tasks and average exposure times that should be OK. You cannot possibly try to dot every i and cross every t.

Posted By Terry J Hall Gavin The Control of Vibration at Work Regulations do not demand absolute accuracy but you are required to make a soundly based estimate of exposures. There are several ways to get magnitude levels - manufacturer's figures (doubled according to HSE advice), various web sites of "in the field" measured values and actually measuring vibrations using a meter. The ACOP to the Regs (L140) even gives some broad values for certain hand-held equipment that you could possibly use. The key thing is that the data you use is as representative as possible of that which occurs at your workplace. This can often be tricky because a lot depends on the make/model/age/degree of maintenance etc. of the tools. Also the same tool may give different magnitudes depending what material it is working on (e.g. cutting steel with a grinder may produce a different magnitude to cutting stone). It may be worth doing a bit of research. The point of estimating the exposures is so you can see if you need to do other things under the regulations (health surveillance, training etc). If your readings are fairly rough and are close to the Exposure Action Value it may be best to assume the EAV has been exceeded & proceed accordingly. It is true that grip strength/position etc can affect the vibration "dose" received but good basic training in tool use should help. Also you should ensure that all your tools are well maintained and balanced. The pedestal grinder data will be tricky to find and you may have to get measurements made of all the different materials you are grinding. There is an old HSE research document (CRR 234/1999) which gives some example readings made using this type of equipment. Remember under CVAWR your risk assessment should give consideration to anyone who may be at particular risk from vibration (e.g. someone with existing HAVS or circulatory problems). Furthermore employers also have a duty to reduce vibration to as low a level as is reasonably practicable. Good luck! Terry

Posted By Ian Clay1 Gavin Having recently attending a seminar on HAVS it was stated that whilst the HSE may accept manufacturers data the courts do not recognise it and would be looking at independent data to try and reduce claims.